The ExperTease's Guide to Exploring Richmond

Last weekend I made a snap decision to visit my sister and stepmom in Richmond, VA. There's something powerful about following your instincts when it's urging you to do something that takes you out of your comfort zone. I personally feel that these ideas come from a higher power to nudge you down the path set out for you.

This trip was uncomfortable for me because it was the longest drive I've ever made by myself. Not to mention, I blew a tire while attempting to make the same trip a few weeks earlier. Despite feeling anxious, I threw my bags in the trunk then hit the road. And I'm so glad I did! I've been looking to overcome fear on a consistent basis, and the payoff has been amazing. This time it led to an awesome weekend with two ladies that I love dearly.

But before I go any further, I must acknowledge that I've had some amazing tour guides each time I've visited Richmond. Special thanks to @RevLcook, @Teedizz_Champ, and my sister Amaya for showing me the best of what RVA has to offer. Depending on what you're into, there's something for everyone in this historic city.

6 Things to do Richmond

Catch a cool concert

If you find yourself in Richmond on an extended weekend, RVA native, Mad Skillz, hosts a throwback hip hop & R&B party called the Art of Noise where Skillz, his crew of DJ's, MC's, and other guest appearances turn up all night. Quiet as it is kept, Richmond is one of the largest markets in between Atlanta and D.C. so it draws many acts ranging from Fantasia and Kirk Franklin to Bone Thugs N Harmony.

Step up your hipster wardrobe

I've only heard about the underground hipster scene in Richmond (perhaps they're doing a good job at keeping it underground). However, with a little research or a little luck, you can stumble across a shop like Round Two where you can find brands like Supreme, Bathing Ape, and more. If the hipster vibe is not your thing, don't worry! Richmond has several outdoor malls worth visiting too.

Feed the foodie in you

If you consider yourself a foodie then your trip to Richmond wouldn't be complete without visiting Boathouse. This restaurant offers incredible views, bottomless mimosas, and although I ordered the shrimp and grits, the brunch buffet is also good. For dinner bites, I recommend visiting Crustaceans for a low country boil experience. Richmond is definitely a great city for seafood lovers like me.

Engage the community

On my first visit to Richmond, I had the pleasure of feeding the homeless for Thanksgiving. Admittedly, I could stand to volunteer more because listening to these individual's stories was a humbling experience. Often, the homeless are just normal individuals who had an unfortunate twist of fate leaving them on the street. It may be tough to find community service opportunities in a foreign city, but if you search hard enough I'm sure they are out there. I recommend looking into churches like Saint Paul's Baptist Church for potential volunteer opportunities.

Connect with nature on a trail

My most recent trip to Richmond was spontaneous so I didn't necessarily have any set plans. The result, I was led to this fabulous trail adjacent to the James River. My sister and I (who may or may not be training to be a ninja) found this as a wonderful place to meditate, practice yoga, and even have a martial arts lesson undisturbed.

Tour the city's rich history

Richmond is rooted in American history as it was established when America was still a group of 13 colonies. Full disclosure, Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy so many of the exhibits pay homage to Confederate generals, slave owners and the likes. However, there are also monuments such as the Statue of Reconciliation that openly acknowledge Richmond's role in the slave trade. Regardless how you feel about the circumstances behind these figures, they address an important part of our country's story that deserves to be recognized, studied, and to some extent, appreciated, because we would not be where we are today if it weren't for the efforts of the individuals who came before us.

Bonus Points

If you're still feeling festive after all that exploring and you aren't phased by the eight-hour drive back to Atlanta, hit the road early (I left around 8 AM) and you'll be back in time to catch the afternoon's football games, grab dinner, or in my case, celebrate Friendsgiving with the people you are grateful to spend time with when you are in your hometown.

And that, my friend, is how you conquer Richmond, VA.

I absolutely LOVE this blog. I am so proud of you. Your story made me want to visit Richmond, VS. It so happens that Richmond, VA is where my company’s corporate office is located. Hmmmm! Great job @theexpertease. Thanks for sharing!!

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